Popular Reggae: Western Music Artist Rankings [2025]

Queen of the PackPatra71rank/position

Patra – Queen Of The Pack

Patra, a deejay known as one of the leading female artists in reggae and hailed as the “Queen of the Dancehall,” defies the common belief that women have a disadvantage in deejaying due to vocal qualities.

She is renowned for her powerful ragamuffin style that shows no hint of such limitations.

One of her signature tracks, Queen of the Pack, released in 1993, became a hit not only in Jamaica but also in the United States.

Legalize ItPeter Tosh72rank/position

Peter Tosh – Legalize It (Audio)

A revival reissue of a classic 1976 masterpiece! By Peter Tosh—an original member of The Wailers with Bob Marley and Bunny Wailer, known as the “walking razor”—this signature work features The Wailers’ chorus without Bob Marley, with all members serving as supporting players.

A must-own, must-hear classic for any reggae fan!

PerfidiaPhyllis Dillon73rank/position

Phyllis Dillon – “Perfidia” (Official Audio)

The rocksteady era was also a time when female vocalists thrived.

The slow tempo and love songs suited her clear, expansive voice perfectly, making her one of the leading female vocalists of rocksteady.

Perfidia is her most famous song.

We Are One (Ole Ola)Pitbull & Jennifer Lopez & Claudia Leitte74rank/position

We Are One (Ole Ola) [The Official 2014 FIFA World Cup Song] (Olodum Mix)

This track, which became the official song of the 2014 FIFA World Cup in Brazil, is a reggae tune created by Pitbull featuring big stars like Jennifer Lopez.

Its catchy lyrics are part of the appeal, making it a dancehall reggae song you’ll want to listen to while following along with the words.

One DrawRita Marley75rank/position

Rita Marley – One Draw

This is a track released in March 1981 by Rita Marley, a leading figure in Jamaica’s reggae scene.

Its laid-back beat and catchy chorus made a strong impression and sparked conversation among reggae fans at the time.

Classified as roots reggae, the song is characterized by a deep bassline and a soothing rhythm.

The gentle vocals and echo create a distinctive atmosphere that draws listeners into a sea of healing.

The lyrics express people’s desire for a natural high, leaving a deep impression when paired with Rita’s voice.

It’s best enjoyed in quiet solitude, where you can really sink into it.

Don’t You RemenberRomain Virgo76rank/position

Romain Virgo – Don’t You Remember – Adele – Cover (Official Music Video)

He won Jamaica’s popular audition show “RISING STAR” and made his debut on the scene.

With his boyish looks and sweet vocal style, he enjoys idol-like popularity.

This song might be mistaken as an original by those who usually only listen to reggae, but it’s actually a cover of a track by the world-famous songstress Adele.

Woo-BoostRusko77rank/position

Rusko – Woo Boost [Music Video]

This is a track by UK producer Rusko, often cited as the beginning of brostep.

It explodes with thunderous sub-bass and metallic wobble bass, but rather than being purely aggressive, it’s crafted into a distinctive tune with a cheerful vibe that evokes ’90s rave culture.

The energetic arrangement that moves your body on instinct is seriously addictive, isn’t it? Released back in February 2010, this track was also included on his debut album, O.

M.

G!.

It’s also known for being featured on the soundtrack of the video game Saints Row: The Third.

Perfect for cranking up your adrenaline and getting in the zone, don’t you think?